Next to George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin was perhaps the most successful and most famous man of the 18th century. By 1757 he had become known worldwide for his theories, scientific discoveries and electrical experiments. This time period was also the beginning of his political career; among many other things he soon would be Chief Spokesman for the British colonies and would also have a hand in writing the Declaration of Independence.
1706 - Born January 17 in Boston, Massachusetts.
1. Born the 15th child of the family, and the youngest son in a 17 children family. His parents Josiah and Abiah Franklin were hard working and feared God. His father made soap and candles in his shop "at the sign of the Blue Ball- on Milk street.
1718 - Became apprentice in his brother's print shop.
2. At the age of twelve, being persuaded by his father, he became an apprentice in his brother's print shop. He was a good pupil to his older brother who turned out to be a good teacher. He wrote many newspaper articles and would always sign them "Mr. Silence Dogood- and slipped them under the print-shop door. His brother, James, admired the articles and printed many, but stopped when he found out his brother was writing them.
1723 - Settled in Philadelphia after a disagreement with his brother; employed in Samuel Keimer's print shop.
3. After frequently quarreling with his brother around the print shop he wanted to become his own master and start his own business. At age 17 he ran away and went to Philadelphia, which was the largest city out of all the colonies, and went to work for Samuel Keimer in his print shop. During this time he worked for several different print shops.
1724 - Traveled to London; employed as a printer there.
1727 - Established a debating group, the Junto, in Philadelphia.
1728 - Set up own printing business in Philadelphia.
4. Now at the age of 20 he and a partner opened a print shop and continued in the trade that had been his dream.
